Tips for CaregiversHelping Your Loved One Cope during the Holidays

It’s the most wonderful time of the
year. But the demands of the holiday
season can overwhelm even the healthiest
and most energetic among us. For
individuals battling chronic pain, holiday
stress and anxiety can be magnified,
making symptoms even worse.

While it may be impossible to avoid
holiday stress altogether, here are a few
tips to help you and your loved one meet
the demands of holiday shopping, parties,
and family gatherings:

Decide together which traditions and
rituals are most important.

Help your loved one identify and
explain his or her needs and manage
expectations.

Plan ahead so you know and can anticipate
how this holiday season will
play out.

Help your loved one communicate to
family members how chronic pain may
limit his or her activities.

Remind your loved one that it’s okay
to say no without feeling guilty.

If you’re visiting relatives, find a
quiet space in their house or consider
spending part of the time at a hotel so
your loved one can take a break from
the festivities.

If you’re hosting, considering ordering
pre-made decorations and meals,
and begin preparing several weeks
in advance.

Use an artificial tree and throw a
tree-trimming party to ease the burden
of decorating.

Help your loved one get his or
her shopping done ahead of time.
Take your loved one to the mall during
off-peak hours when the stores are less
crowded for better parking and shorter
lines. Consider catalog and online
shopping, or suggest giving gift
certificates.